Would the artifacts added from a scratched cd or bad PVR recording be considered clipping or is there another word for it?I always worry about the times when the audio signal is interupted for a moment.Iphones and Ipods connected by wire are the worst.

not if your amp (voltage source) can handel the input signal. The only time you would have a problem is if you are trying to push the amp beyond it's operating parameters.. You mentioned sudden increases in volume, and artifacts within the source. These are just inputs, if you have a substantial enough amp, you're LFR's will play much lounder than you would ever want them to.. I usually listen to my system at 12-15 or so.. Reference level on my processor is 32.. If that gives you a gauge as to how loud it gets... 12-15 will result in about 90ish db within the room... The only way i would measure the DB in the room at reference level would be with hearing protection. At that point, it would just be an exercise to get a number..